• mixed view of human nature
• self-interest eventually harmful
• society is organic whole
• equality is not important
• society is hierarchy of layers
• elites have right to rule but responsibilities for welfare of others: "noblesse oblige"
• stability of society paramount
• law & order
• customs & traditions are important
• responsibilities & civil liberties of citizens, plus privileges for elites
• limited electorate
• mixed views on economy

Two Varieties of Modern Conservatism

Common beliefs:

• universal franchise
• traditional values should only be changed slowly
• upward (and downward) mobility replaces permanent strata in society

Neo-Conservatism:

• limited government involvement in the economy
• very limited range of social welfare programs
• increased government protection of morality
• emphasis on populism
• maintain traditional social values
• distrust of trade unionism

Red Toryism (in Canada) or Wets (in U.K.):

• classical responsibility of better off to poor is expanded to support for strong social welfare programs
• emphasis on equality of opportunity
• accept using the power of the state to regulate economy and promote economic interests
• accept basic value of trade unionism

© 2007 Andrew Heard